Mastectomy Swimwear
Swimsuits for after breast surgery, whether you had one side or both, wear a breast form or go flat. Every Red Peony suit has soft inner pockets on both sides that hold a prosthesis in place, and a cut designed to cover scars at the chest and underarm.
Choose a one-piece for smooth coverage from neckline to hip, or a tankini (Vera, Inga or Kate) if you want two pieces that are easier to get in and out of. Sizes run from 8 to 20, with Natalia up to 3XL, and every swimsuit is $58. Not sure about size? Our size guide takes two minutes.
How the pockets work
Inside the bust of each suit is a pocket on each side. You slip your breast form in, and the suit holds it against your chest, so it stays put when you swim, bend or reach. [[TODO: where is the opening — top edge or side? Which form sizes fit?]]
After a single mastectomy, use the pocket you need and leave the other empty. Not wearing a form? The pockets lie flat and you won't notice them.
One-piece or tankini?
A one-piece gives the most coverage and the smoothest line. Marina and Natalia have a longer front panel that covers the tummy and bikini line. Choose a one-piece if you want one garment to think about.
A tankini is two pieces: a top with the pockets and a separate high-waisted bottom. Vera, Inga and Kate are quicker to get on and off in a changing room, and easier for bathroom trips at the beach.
After a single or double mastectomy, or reconstruction
After a single mastectomy, the aim is usually balance: a form on one side so both sides look even under the fabric.
After a double mastectomy, you can wear two forms or none. If you're going flat, look for a suit that sits close to the chest rather than gaping at the neckline.
After reconstruction, many women still like the extra coverage at the underarm and neckline. The pockets can hold a light shaper, or nothing at all.
Caring for your suit and your prosthesis
- Rinse your suit in cool fresh water straight after swimming, before it dries.
- Hand wash with a mild detergent and don't wring it. Dry it flat in the shade.
- Take your form out of the pocket before washing, and let the pocket dry fully.
Many everyday silicone forms aren't designed for chlorinated pools or the sea, which is why lightweight swim forms exist. Your fitter or care team can tell you whether yours is swim-safe.
Questions women ask us
Fit
How do I know my size?
Measure your bust over the form you'll swim in, then your waist and hips, and compare them with the chart in our size guide.
What if I'm between sizes?
[[TODO: Olga's rule — size up or down?]] If you're unsure, write to us with your measurements and we'll tell you which size we'd choose.
Do the suits work after reconstruction?
Yes. Many women still like the underarm and neckline coverage, and the pockets can stay empty or hold a light shaper.
Pockets and breast forms
Are the pockets on both sides?
Yes. Every swimsuit has a pocket on each side, so it works after a single or double mastectomy.
Can I wear my regular silicone prosthesis in the pool?
Check with the maker first. Many everyday silicone forms aren't designed for chlorine or salt water, and lightweight swim forms are made for the water.
Do the suits work if I'm flat or don't wear a form?
Yes. The pockets lie flat when they're empty.
Swimming after surgery
When can I swim after a mastectomy?
That's a question for your surgeon or care team. It depends on how your incisions and any drain sites have healed, and on any treatment you're still having.
Can I swim during radiotherapy?
Ask your radiotherapy team. Chlorine and sun can affect treated skin, and they'll know your situation.